Manchester City loanee set for nightmare as manager plans for prolonged replacement

Amidst the high-profile exits from Manchester City this summer, one departure that largely went under the radar was Zack Steffen’s temporary switch to Middlesbrough.

While the USMNT goalkeeper has only gone out on loan to the Championship side, it does seem like the end of the road for him at the Etihad Stadium.

The first red flag concerning the 27-year-old emerged after he made an error of judgement by rushing out of his goal against Southampton in the FA Cup, which led to Aymeric Laporte’s own goal in an eventual 4-1 win for Manchester City last season.

Zack Steffen after conceding Man City's second goal (PA Images / Alamy)

However, it was against Liverpool in the same competition where the former Columbus Crew shot-stopper reportedly pulled it the final straw.

For Sadio Mane’s first goal to double the Reds’ lead on the day, Zack Steffen was indecisive with the ball at his feet, which allowed the now-Bayern Munich winger to dispossess him and tap the ball into the back of the net.

As for the Senegalese international’s second strike and Liverpool’s eventual winner, Steffen made a mishap of an attempt that should not have bypassed him at the near the post.

With Manchester City exiting the FA Cup at the semi-final stage in a 3-2 defeat, there were major question marks over Steffen’s comfortability in possession and shot-stopping ability.

Ultimately, this led to the eventual arrival of Stefan Ortega Moreno during the most recent summer transfer window.

Stefan Ortega joins Manchester City fans for an unveiling event.

While it seemed like donning the number one spot for 'Boro over the course of the ongoing season could rejuvenate the out-of-favour goalkeeper, a new revelation suggests that things could go downhill for the Manchester City loanee once again.

As per the latest information provided by journalist Alan Nixon, Middlesbrough manager Chris Wilder is intent on sticking with Liam Roberts as his first-choice goalkeeper, even at the risk of displeasing Pep Guardiola’s side.

Zack Steffen completes switch to Boro

Since replacing Zack Steffen in the last three games, Roberts has impressed the former Sheffield United boss - who now plans to give him an extended run in the starting line-up.

The Premier League champions wanted their on-loan shot-stopper to play week in, week out in the Championship, which could be a tall task for him at the minute.

Zack Steffen in Manchester City action.

Initially, Wilder put Steffen straight into his side, with the Sky Blues star starting the first five league games of the season.

Ultimately, Manchester City may now choose to cut their losses and find a buyer for Zack Steffen next summer, which could be a challenge as his loan stint may not encourage buyers to queue up for his signature.

Zack Steffen in Manchester City action.